Houston Texans safety Jimmie Ward will not face criminal charges in his domestic violence case, TMZ Sports has confirmed. A Montgomery County, Texas grand jury issued a no bill on Thursday after failing to find probable cause.
The ruling marks a major legal victory for Ward, who has consistently maintained his innocence since the allegations surfaced in June.
Ward’s Attorney Celebrates Grand Jury Decision
Ward’s attorney, Stephen Jackson, released a statement following the grand jury’s decision:
“Today we presented our grand jury packet and evidence to the grand jury to show that Mr. Ward was factually innocent of the allegations against him. The district attorney also provided information to the grand jury that we believe assisted in their conclusion that Mr. Ward should be no billed.”
Jackson added:
“We believe not only was he exonerated by the grand jury, but that the actions of the grand jury show that Jimmie was factually innocent. We and Jimmie want to thank NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, the Houston Texans organization, and ownership for their patience in this situation and their belief in Jimmie.”
Ward Can Return to Football and Community Work
Jackson emphasized that Ward can now resume his role with the Texans and continue his community efforts in Houston:
“Now Jimmie can get back to the team’s quest for a Super Bowl, and also allows him to get back to the community and how he gives back to the City of Houston. What happened to Jimmie was wrong.”
Ward was previously placed on the NFL Commissioner Exempt list, which has kept him off the field this season while the league reviewed the situation. A spokesperson for the NFL confirmed it is still monitoring all developments.
The Allegations
Ward was accused of assaulting, strangling, and threatening his fiancée during an early-morning dispute at a Magnolia, Texas residence on June 12. He was arrested following the incident but vehemently denied wrongdoing and urged the public not to rush to judgment.
While criminal charges have been cleared, Ward still faces a civil suit related to the allegations, meaning legal proceedings are not entirely over.
Key Takeaways
- Jimmie Ward cleared by Montgomery County grand jury; no criminal charges filed.
- Attorney Stephen Jackson calls the decision proof of Ward’s factual innocence.
- Ward can return to play for the Houston Texans and resume community involvement.
- Allegations stemmed from an incident on June 12 involving his fiancée.
- Ward remains subject to a civil lawsuit; NFL continues to monitor the situation.
Fans and the NFL community are watching closely as Ward looks to resume his career, with both the league and Texans expressing confidence in his innocence.
Stay tuned for updates on Jimmie Ward’s NFL return and civil case developments. What do you think of the grand jury’s ruling? Drop a comment below!
